Genetic Mutations in B-Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Among African American and European American Children.

Background: The survival of patients with B-acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) is significantly lower in African American (AA) children compared with European American children (EA). Here, we present a whole exome sequencing (WES) study showing race-specific genetic variations that may play a role on the disparate outcomes among AA and EA children with B-ALL.

Patients And Methods: Five AA and 15 EA patients ranging in age from 1 to 18 years were enrolled.

Integrative Analysis of MicroRNA-Mediated Gene Signatures and Pathways Modulating White Blood Cell Count in Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate the expression of protein-coding genes and represent potential biomarkers for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). However, information linking miRNAs with their messenger RNA (mRNA) target genes modulating white blood cell (WBC) count is lacking. Here, we analyzed miRNAs and gene expression data from pediatric patients with ALL to identify a signature of miRNAs involved in ALL and their mRNA target genes, molecular networks, and biological pathways modulating WBC.

Whole blood platelet aggregation and release reaction testing in uremic patients.

Background: Platelet function analysis utilizing platelet-rich plasma and optical density based aggregometry fails to identify patients at risk for uremia associated complications.

Methods: We employed whole blood platelet aggregation analysis based on impedance as well as determination of ATP release from platelet granules detected by a chemiluminescence method. Ten chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage 4 or 5 predialysis patients underwent platelet evaluation.

Prediction of lung cancer histological types by RT-qPCR gene expression in FFPE specimens.

Lung cancer histologic diagnosis is clinically relevant because there are histology-specific treatment indications and contraindications. Histologic diagnosis can be challenging owing to tumor characteristics, and it has been shown to have less-than-ideal agreement among pathologists reviewing the same specimens. Microarray profiling studies using frozen specimens have shown that histologies exhibit different gene expression trends; however, frozen specimens are not amenable to routine clinical application.

Celiac disease in an urban VA population with iron deficiency: the case against routine duodenal biopsy.

Background: Celiac disease is considered an under-recognized cause of iron deficiency. Small intestinal biopsy is proposed to be part of routine evaluation for iron deficiency.

Aims: To determine the prevalence of celiac disease in an urban, mostly male, mostly minority population with iron deficiency.